Deshaun Watson gets clarity from NFL on new allegations of sexual assault and battery as controversy threatens to engulf Browns QB: Report
On Monday, a new lawsuit filed in Houston against Deshaun Watson came to light. According to the lawsuit, the Cleveland Browns quarterback is being sued for sexual assault, battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
The story, which was originally reported by NBC's Pro Football Talk, mentioned that the reported accusations were similar to the earlier lawsuits filed against Watson.
The lawsuit mentioned that the plaintiff and Watson went on a date in 2020 when the player was still a part of the Houston Texans. The Browns quarterback yelled at the woman after he was unable to locate her apartment.
Once he gained entry to the apartment, Watson allegedly undressed, got on her bed, and asked the woman to massage his buttocks. Later, the 28-year-old NFL star reportedly "sexually assaulted" the plaintiff for several minutes.
The allegations against Watson are quite serious and many expect the NFL to take action against him. However, as of now, the league is reportedly not looking to place him on the commissioner’s exempt list. NFL insider Tom Pelissero wrote on X:
"The NFL doesn’t plan to place Browns QB Deshaun Watson on the commissioner’s exempt list in light of a new civil lawsuit stemming from a 2020 allegation, since there have been no criminal charges and the league’s review has just begun."
The league is currently looking into the matter and will likely decide once more details about the situation comes to light. In 2022, Deshaun Watson was suspended for 11 games for violating the league's personal conduct policy. Watson has already settled more than 20 civil lawsuits that were filed against him before he was traded to the Browns.
More details on latest lawsuit against Deshaun Watson
As per the lawsuit, the plaintiff who filed under the pseudonym Jane Doe was 'terrified' after Deshaun Watson asked her for the massage. She did try to "appease Watson by rubbing his back," but the frustrated quarterback allegedly turned over and "revealed an erection."
As mentioned earlier, Watson reportedly "sexually assaulted" the plaintiff for several minutes. Jane Doe was able to break free and ran to her dresser to grab a heavy piece of decor for self-defense. Watson stormed out of her apartment after Jane Doe yelled at him to do so.
Tony Buzbee, the same attorney who represented several other people who filed lawsuits against Watson in 2021, is representing Jane Doe.